# Aoshima

> A small island connected to the mainland by a bridge, surrounded by unique wave-eroded rock formations known as the Devil's Washboard. The island is home to Aoshima Shrine and a lush subtropical botanical garden.

- Prefecture: Miyazaki
- Type: Attraction
- Address: Miyazaki, Japan

Aoshima is a tiny island just 1.5 kilometers in circumference, connected to the Miyazaki coastline by a pedestrian bridge. The island is entirely surrounded by the Oni no Sentakuita, or Devil's Washboard, a striking natural formation of concentric rock ridges created by millions of years of wave erosion on tilted sandstone layers. At the island's center stands Aoshima Shrine, dedicated to the deity of marriage and easy childbirth, making it popular with couples. The shrine is enveloped by a dense subtropical forest of over 200 plant species including betel palms and fan palms, giving the island a distinctly tropical atmosphere unusual for mainland Japan. The nearby Aoshima Subtropical Botanical Garden offers free admission and a pleasant stroll through exotic flora.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Aoshima from Miyazaki?

Take the JR Nichinan Line from Miyazaki Station to Aoshima Station, which takes about 30 minutes and costs around ¥380. From the station it is roughly a 10-minute walk to the island, which you reach over a footbridge.

### What is Aoshima known for?

The small island is ringed by wave-eroded rock ledges called the Devil's Washboard (oni no sentakuita), and Aoshima Shrine sits in the subtropical jungle at its center. The beaches nearby are used for surfing.

### Is there an entry fee, and when is the best time to visit?

Entry is free and the shrine is open daily. The rock formations are best seen at low tide, so check the tide times before you go.

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Source: Aoshima — Japan Voyage